Canada-based Champion Petfoods is building a new kitchen in Auburn, Kentucky, USA—the company's third kitchen, according to reports.

"The agricultural heritage and proximity to ranches and farms make locating to western Kentucky an excellent choice," said Champion Petfoods President and CEO, Frank Burdzy. "We are very pleased that the Commonwealth of Kentucky is partnered with us to grow our biologically appropriate mandate.

"Our new custom-fitted kitchens will advance our biologically appropriate and fresh regional ingredient foods," said Burdzy. "We're going to install the best technology available to prepare a unique variety of innovative foods reflecting the Kentucky region."

Champion's Canadian kitchens will focus on supplying the pet specialty market in Canada, Europe and Asia, while the new Kentucky kitchens will supply the pet specialty market in the US, said the company. Champion's new "Made in Kentucky" foods will be available in 2016.